The 12 best infinity pools in Australia

Kate Bettes Kate Bettes
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Like the illusion they are famous for, our love for the infinity pool is endless.

Gorgeous, photographic and endlessly enticing. No wonder we remain obsessed with infinity pools.

There is a whole world of pools to perch next to. But who needs to travel far when we have these stunning ones at home?

1. qualia, Qld

Any view of the Whitsundays on the Great Barrier Reef is enough to make us squeal with excitement. But when it comes from the infinity pool at the luxurious qualia resort?

Infinity pool at qualia resort.
Take in stunning sea views from the comfort of your room. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Hold on to the edge, because we might just faint from joy. Swim here until it’s time for lunch at the adjacent Pebble Beach restaurant or a snooze on one of the private cabanas. The pool is limited to guest use.

Infinity pool at qualia resort.
Swim in qualia’s stunning infinity pool. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Address: 20 Whitsunday Blvd, Whitsundays, Qld

2. Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island, NSW

Blue-jade ocean views. The buzz of a rainforest thick with banyan trees and palms. The dizzying heights of Mounts Gower and Lidgbird.

a woman sitting on the edge of the infinity pool on Lord Howe Island at Capella Lodge
Take in the alluring beauty of Lord Howe Island from Capella Lodge’s infinity pool. (Image: tom-archer.com)

The plunge pool overlooking all this and Lovers Bay at Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island is the cherry on top of the alluring beauty of this remote Pacific island. You will have to pay to play: the pool, restaurant and lodge here are exclusively for Capella guests.

the balcony facing mountain and beach views at Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island, NSW
Enjoy this slice of paradise. (Image: Rhiannon Taylor)

Address: Lagoon Rd, Lord Howe Island, NSW

3. The Louise, SA

The wine region of the Barossa Valley stuns at any angle – and especially so from the infinity pool at The Louise.

the infinity pool with sun loungers at The Louise, SA
The Louise’s infinity pool overlooks the endless expanse of the valley.

The outdoor pool overlooks the endless expanse of the valley, emphasising the dedication of this Baillie Lodges member to show off the world-famous Barossa produce.

sunset views from the exterior of The Louise, SA
Relax at The Louise.

The Louise has its own wine cellar, and the onsite award-winning Appellation restaurant with its Australian degustation menu, which are available to non-guests.

the dining interior of Appellation Restaurant at The Louise, SA
Indulge at the award-winning Appellation Restaurant.

Address: 375 Seppeltsfield Road, Marananga, SA

4. Eco Beach Resort, WA

When it comes to sunsets, it’s hard to beat watching the evening close in over Broome in WA.

a woman sitting on the edge of the infinity pool at Eco Beach Resort, WA during sunset
It’s hard to beat watching the evening close at Eco Beach Resort. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@tessomewhere)

But when you stay in the sustainable four-star Eco Beach Resort, you can add an infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean to that already winning hand.

Once the stars come out in their droves, it’s time to retire to Eco Beach Resort’s Jack’s Bar and Restaurant for a sundowner. Access to the pool is guest-only.

a woman relaxing in the infinity pool at Eco Beach Resort, WA
The infinity pool at Eco Beach Resort overlooks the Indian Ocean. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/@tessomewhere)

Address: Lot 323 Great Northern Highway, Broome, WA

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5. Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, Vic

Sky-high, five-star and ultra-luxurious. One thing the Ritz-Carlton in central Melbourne does not have is the ability to do things in halves. Spend plenty of time exploring the city best known for its Europe Down Under vibes but save some for this zen-like heated infinity pool overlooking the city.

the infinity pool at Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, Vic
The Ritz-Carlton looks out over the city.

Once your fingers are adequately wrinkly, explore further afield in this 80-floor hotel – discovering commissioned artworks from First Nations artists like Djirrirra Wununmurra and Reko Rennie and experiencing fine-dining at the Ritz Carlton’s panoramic Atria.

the indoor setting of the infinity pool at Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, Vic
Lounge by the pool overlooking the city at Ritz-Carlton Melbourne.

Address: 650 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, Vic

6. Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook, NSW

Upgrade your NSW South Coast trip when you relax poolside at the boutique Bannisters by the Sea in Mollymook.

sunloungers by the poolside at Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook, NSW
Lounge by the pool at Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook.

Perched at the top of the cliffs overlooking the waves, the Bannisters By the Sea Hotel infinity pool is the perfect escape from the Sydney crowds. Serving up pizzas and cocktails, the Bannisters Pool Bar is open to guests and visitors.

a woman relaxing in the infinity pool at Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook.
Bask in the glory of Bannisters by the Sea Mollymook.

Address: 191 Mitchell Parade, Mollymook, NSW

7. Lake Argyle Resort, WA

A caravan and camping ground aren’t the first places you would usually associate with infinity pools with drop-dead gorgeous views.

a woman sitting by the edge on the infinity pool at Lake Argyle Resort, WA
The views at Lake Argyle Resort are nothing short of epic. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

The Lake Argyle Resort in the East Kimberley is the exception. Guests here can enjoy a resort-style pool overlooking Australia’s second-largest freshwater lake.

The beer garden restaurant and swimming pool are available to the public, for a fee. If hunger strikes after a swim, the camp kitchen and shared barbecue spaces are also a cheap alternative for dinner.

a couple sitting by the edge of the infinity pool during sunset at Lake Argyle Resort, WA
Dramatic sunset hues and breathtaking vistas at Lake Argyle Resort make the perfect romantic getaway. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Address: 525 Lake Argyle Road Lake Argyle, WA

8. QT Hotels Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, Qld

With its glowing skyline and buzzing nightlife, there is nothing better after a night out in Surfers Paradise than spending the day poolside. And where better than the infinity pool at QT Hotels Gold Coast?

a woman floating at the infinity pool at QT Hotels Gold Coast
The infinity pool at QT Hotels Gold Coast feels like a dream.

Hair-of-the-dog bottle service spiked popsicles from the Spring poolside bar and restaurant, and Palm Springs-style cabanas await. Not a guest? No stress. Anyone can book a visit here.

a top view of the infinity pool at QT Hotels Gold Coast
A Palm Springs-style pool is what tropical dreams are made of. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Address: 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise, Qld

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9. The Billabong at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Qld

You won’t find any crocs in The Crocodile Hunter Lodge’s pool – despite the name. A wilderness accommodation by the world-famous conservationist Steve Irwin, those that book a stay in the family cabins for guest-only access to a very special kind of infinity pool.

the infinity pool at The Billabong at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Qld
Laze by the pool at Crocodile Hunter Lodge.

Sit in ‘the billabong’ quietly, and the chances are you will see Australian wildlife like kangaroos, emus and echidnas, amble past. The pool is accessible-friendly, and The Warrior Restaurant is attached to the lodge.

emus walking around The Billabong at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Qld
Australian wildlife is a common sight here. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Crocodile Hunter Lodge)

Address: 88 Irwin Rd, Beerwah, Qld

10. Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula, Vic

Pinot grape skin scrubs, a close-at-hand winery cellar door, and a coveted spot on the Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List. Could we be in any more of a frenzy to get down to the Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula?

the infinity pool at Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula, Vic
Relax by the pool at Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula.

Throw in its pavilion complete with infinity pool views over the LL Vineyard (accessible to guests only), and we are practically frothing at the mouth to make a booking. Non-guests can also book the hotel’s Doot Doot Doot restaurant and visit the Rare Hare cellar door.

the scenic LL Vineyard sunrise views at Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula, Vic
Revel in views over the vineyard.

Address: LL Vineyard, 166 Balnarring Rd, Merricks North, Vic

11. W Hotel Sydney, NSW

Opened in 2023, the then world’s biggest W Hotel in the world at ‘The Ribbon’ building was bound to get tongues wagging. And at this luxury Darling Harbour accommodation, the chance to float in the infinity pool at the W Hotel Sydney is definitely part of it.

the facade of W Hotel Sydney, NSW
W Hotel Sydney is set majestically over Darling Harbour.

Guests should take the elevator to the 29th floor to get to the WET Deck. There, do a few laps over the playful floor mosaics of the heated pool, before settling in for nibbles and cocktails overlooking the world’s most beautiful harbour.

the WET Deck infinity pool at W Hotel Sydney
Indulge on the WET Deck at the W Hotel Sydney.

Address: 31 Wheat Rd, Sydney, NSW

12. ibis Styles Hobart, Tas

When it comes to looking for in-house soaks in Tasmania, social media tends to focus on steamy standalone baths in remote locations. But at the state capital, you can also drop by the infinity pool at the ibis Styles Hobart.

the infinity pool at the ibis Styles Hobart
Soak up city views from the infinity pool at ibis Syles Hobart.

Located in the centre of Hobart and overlooking the city, a swim in this four-star hotel pool is a Champagne experience on a beer budget.

the infinity pool at the ibis Styles Hobart
Swim in style with epic views of the skyline.

Address: 173 Macquarie St, Hobart, Tas

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Kate Bettes
Kate Bettes is a freelance travel writer. Whether having a picnic in Vietnamese jungle with new friends, or partying in the back of a limousine in Hollywood, Kate’s experiences have left her with the sneaking suspicion that the best travel memories happen when you least expect. It’s this feeling - and how to get it - that she loves to write about.
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Taking the route less travelled along the Great Ocean Road

    Megan Arkinstall Megan Arkinstall
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    The Great Ocean Road has captured the hearts of Australians with its astounding scenery since 1932, but going off-course can enrich your experience with untouched nature, foodie delights and charming towns. 

    It’s a chilly 16 degrees. My husband pulls on a steamer and jogs – as all seasoned surfers do – into the water. We’re at Bells Beach, the legendary break on Victoria’s Surf Coast that’s home to the Rip Curl Pro, the world’s longest-running event in competitive surfing. Each year, over the Easter long weekend, up to 40,000 people descend on the region for the event. Today, though, we have the beach almost to ourselves, and the less-than-favourable temperature doesn’t deter my husband from surfing this famous break.  

    Bells Beach
    Bells Beach is known for its epic surf break and is at the start of the Great Ocean Road. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    Torquay to Anglesea and Aireys Inlet 

    Split Point Lighthouse
    The red dome of Split Point Lighthouse in Aireys Inlet. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    The nearby surf town of Torquay marks the starting point for the Great Ocean Road. Unfolding our map, which we have marked out with a highlighted route for our children to follow, we set off for lesser-known Anglesea, a chilled-out town 20 minutes south of here. Its wide, sandy beach is a gentler swimming option for our young family. Groms can learn to surf here with Go Ride a Wave, which also runs stand-up paddle boarding on the Anglesea River.  

    Split point lookout
    The lighthouse overlooks the Shipwreck Coast. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    After a couple of nights in Anglesea, we hit the road again, first stopping at Aireys Inlet. Here we stretch our legs at Split Point Lighthouse, which was made famous by the 1990s television series Round the Twist, before driving under the Memorial Arch that welcomes us, officially, to the Great Ocean Road.  

    This 243-kilometre coastal road was built by returned First World War servicemen and serves as a permanent memorial to those who fought and died during the war. Carved into rock using hand tools and horse-drawn carts, it was a huge engineering feat and provided much-needed access to isolated coastal communities. 

    Lorne to Birregurra 

    Lorne is a delightful beachside stop for lunch and browsing boutique stores. It’s also the gateway to Great Otway National Park, which comprises a varied landscape of old-growth forests, cool-temperate rainforests, heathy woodlands and rugged coast. With the highest rainfall in Victoria, the region is home to many waterfalls – 10 of which are within 10 kilometres of Lorne.  

    Turning slightly off the main drag, we wind along a gum-shaded road to Erskine Falls. Here, our son leads the way through the hyper-green rainforest and down 200-plus stairs to the cascade that drops 30 metres into a lush fern gully. We hop over large boulders to get closer to the falls, enjoying the entire place to ourselves; it’s worth the return climb.  

    From Sheoak Falls Picnic Area, there are walking trails to Henderson Falls, Phantom Falls, Won Wondah Falls and Kalimna Falls, some of which follow an old timber tramway from forest-logging days, which only came to an end in 2008.  

    Erskine Falls
    Erskine Falls is one of many falls within a day trip of Lorne. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    You can follow your appetite north to the town of Birregurra, which is part of the Otway Harvest Trail that connects farm gates, markets, wineries, breweries and distilleries. It’s home to three-hatted modern Australian restaurant Brae, helmed by celebrated chef Dan Hunter, set among native gardens and an organic farm, and Otways Distillery, which produces small-batch spirits using local produce and botanicals.  

    Brae restaurant
    Brae is a three-hatted restaurant in Birregurra. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    Apollo Bay to The Otways 

    Back on track, the cliff-hugging stretch between Lorne and Apollo Bay is breathtaking. At Teddys Lookout, we overlook the winding road ahead and St George River spilling into the ocean. We spend languid days in Apollo Bay, a buzzy seaside town that boasts a three-kilometre-long, crescent-shaped beach with a backdrop of rolling green hills. One evening, as the sun sets, we take the steep 10-minute walk to Marriners Lookout, which affords panoramic views of the ocean, hinterland and town.  

    A 15-minute drive along the road, Maits Rest is a lush rainforest gully that has been protected since the early 20th century. Wandering along the 800-metre boardwalk, we inspect the delicate moss-covered forest floor and the gnarled roots of 300-year-old myrtle beech trees, then crane our necks to see their canopies, some 50 metres above us. It’s therapy in nature.  

    Cape Otway to the Twelve Apostles 

    Twelve Apostles
    One of the famous Twelve Apostles, limestone sea stacks that rise from the Southern Ocean. (Image: Ben Savage)

    The southernmost tip of Cape Otway is a delightful detour, home to the 1848-built Cape Otway Lightstation, the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia. We climb the narrow winding staircase to the gallery deck, explore the keepers’ quarters and telegraph station, and enjoy a coffee and some ‘famous’ scones at the charming onsite cafe.    

    It’s a pinch-me moment to finally see the Twelve Apostles in person. This unmistakable cluster of limestone stacks rising abruptly from the sea were never 12, however. When coined this in the 1890s as a marketing ploy, there were only nine; today, only seven remain after two collapsed in 2005 and 2009. We admire these Aussie icons from the viewing platform, in awe of Mother Nature’s ever-evolving artwork.  

    The Grotto
    The Grotto is another natural attraction within Port Campbell National Park. (Image: Carmen Zammit)

    Edging the wild Southern Ocean, this part of the coast – dubbed Shipwreck Coast – is made up of many sea-carved natural wonders including London Bridge, The Grotto and Gibson Steps. After exploring the lookout trails of Loch Ard Gorge/Poombeeyt Kontapool – its English name taken from the site of the 1878 shipwreck – we nestle into the sandy beach encircled by towering sandstone cliffs, as our children splash about on the water’s edge, and soak it all in.  

    Port Campbell to Timboon 

    Timboon Fine Ice Cream
    Timboon Fine Ice Cream is part of a regional foodie trail. (Image: C McConville)

    Just north of Port Campbell National Park, the region of Timboon is part of the 12 Apostles Food Artisans Trail, filled with purveyors of delicious foodstuffs such as Timboon Fine Ice Cream, Timboon Railway Shed Distillery and Apostle Whey Cheese. As an antidote to the indulgence, the 20-kilometre Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail is a self-guided ride or walk between Port Campbell and Timboon through tall forests, over historic bridges and past sparkling lakes and farmland with grazing cattle.  

    Warrnambool to Port Fairy 

    Warrnambool building
    A 19th-century building in Warrnambool. (Image: Peter Foster)

    In Warrnambool, a town rich in maritime history, we take the four-kilometre Thunder Point Walk that traces the coast. The kids squeal when an echidna shuffles out from beneath the wooden boardwalk, and we stop to admire a seal lazing on a rock at the port.  

    Further along, the streets of quaint fishing village Port Fairy are lined with 19th-century cottages, old stone churches and Norfolk pines. Follow the historic walking trail to see some of the 60-plus National Trust buildings. Port Fairy is also home to Port Fairy Folk Festival (6-9 March), one of the country’s longest-running music and cultural festivals. You could time your road trip with the event for a fittingly celebratory end to any journey.  

    The Great Ocean Road can easily be done in three days, but we’ve spent a week on the road. The highlighted line on our now creased and well-worn map doesn’t follow the famous route precisely. It has sprouted branches in many directions, leading us to untouched rainforest and charming rural towns filled with culinary delights, and where we experienced some of our most memorable moments on the Great Ocean Road.    

    A traveller’s checklist 

    Staying there

    Oak & Anchor
    The Oak & Anchor in Port Fairy.

    The Monty is a highly anticipated, newly refurbished motel with a chic Palm Springs-inspired aesthetic set across the road from the Anglesea River. Basalt Winery in Port Fairy grows cool-climate wines such as pinot noir and Riesling in rich volcanic soil. Stay among the vines in its tiny home, complete with a kitchen, lounge area and outdoor firepit. 

    The Oak & Anchor Hotel has been a Port Fairy institution since 1857. Cosy up by the bar in winter or bask in the sunshine of the Lawn Bar in summer. The rooms are beautifully boutique with considered details, such as luxe baths for sinking into post-road trip. 

    Eating there

    The Coast in Anglesea is a modern Australian restaurant focused on local ingredients. Grand Pacific Hotel has been a local landmark in Lorne since 1879 and recently underwent a restoration. It serves a mix of traditional pub and Italian fare alongside ocean views.  

    Graze is a cosy 40-seat dining room in Apollo Bay with a modern Australian menu complemented by regional wines. Apollo Bay Distillery offers tasting flights, a gin blending masterclass and serves woodfired pizzas.